Soil conservation specialists training course

Objective:
Based on general knowledge in natural sciences, agriculture, and technology, we aim to provide specialized soil science expertise and expand existing knowledge. The program trains professionals capable of addressing soil-related (surveying, planning, protective) issues in state and private enterprises, advisory institutions, land offices, administrative, nature, and environmental protection offices. Throughout the training, we adhere to the principles outlined in the European Union's Soil Conservation Strategy in both philosophy and practical applications.

Designation in the Diploma for Specialized Qualification: Soil Conservation Presenter

Institute Facilitating the Program: Institute of Environmental Sciences

Prerequisites for Participation in Specialized Continuing Education: Degree in natural sciences, agriculture, or technical disciplines obtained through undergraduate or college-level education.

Duration of the Program: Part-time study spanning 4 semesters, comprising a minimum of 500 lecture hours and 120 credits.

Key Study Areas:

1. Foundational Soil Science Knowledge (10-20% of credits, 22 credits): Soil chemistry, soil physics, soil classification.
2. Soil Science and Applied Soil Science Courses (70-80% of credits, 88 credits): Soil survey methods, soil management, soil conservation, global environmental issues, applied soil biology, experimental methodology and data evaluation, soil testing methods, land evaluation, field practice on Hungarian soils.

Requirements for Obtaining the Presenter's Diploma: Throughout the program, students must attend 167 hours of lectures and 342 hours of practical sessions (lab work, seminars, planning exercises). Additionally, there are field practices (144 hours) each semester, lasting 3-4 days. Lectures and practical sessions involve instructors from the department as well as experts from other institutions. Examination requirements include 9 colloquiums, 2 practical assessments, 6 signatures, completion of a thesis, successful defense in the final exam, and a comprehensive professional oral exam.

The program, with a minimum of 20 participants, is scheduled to commence in spring 2021 and concludes with the final exam in December 2022. The tuition fee is 200,000 HUF/person/first semester. The fee does not cover accommodation, meals, study materials, and the final exam costs. Any modification in the tuition fee follows the regulations specified in Government Decree 51/2002. (II. 26.).